south-iceland · Iceland
Múlagljúfur Canyon
About Múlagljúfur Canyon
A remote canyon with three hidden waterfalls in the highlands near Vatnajökull glacier. Shaped by volcanic activity, glacial erosion, and the forces of wind and water over millennia, this natural attraction draws visitors who come to witness landscapes found nowhere else. The area provides excellent opportunities for photography, hiking, and connecting with Iceland's pristine wilderness.
History & Background
This site in Southeast Iceland has captivated visitors and locals alike throughout Iceland's history. The natural formations here were shaped over thousands of years by the forces of volcanism, glaciation, and erosion. Early settlers recognized the unique beauty of this place, and it features in various historical accounts and folklore. Iceland's natural wonders have been described by travelers since the medieval period, with some of the earliest written accounts appearing in the sagas and geographic treatises of the 12th and 13th centuries. Today, This site continues to draw visitors from around the world who come to witness the extraordinary landscapes that make Iceland one of the most geologically diverse places on the planet.
Did You Know?
- ✔3 waterfalls: Múlafoss, Hangandifoss, Strutslaug
- ✔Natural hot spring for bathing
- ✔4x4 and river crossings required (F208)
- ✔Steep, unmarked descent into canyon
- ✔Very few visitors — true backcountry
Tours Near Múlagljúfur Canyon
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Three hidden waterfalls, a secret hot spring, and total wilderness — one of Iceland's most remote and pristine canyons.
Did You Know?
Múlagljúfur has a natural hot spring (Strutslaug) hidden on the canyon floor where you can bathe surrounded by waterfalls.
The Ice Giant of Vatnajökull
Beneath Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, volcanoes sleep fitfully, and local legend holds that a great ice giant (jötunn) is imprisoned beneath the ice. When the giant stirs in anger, volcanic eruptions melt the ice from below, causing catastrophic floods (jökulhlaups) that reshape the landscape. These floods are very real — they have destroyed bridges, farms, and roads throughout history. The legend of the ice giant reflects how Icelanders have processed the terrifying reality of subglacial volcanism through storytelling, transforming unpredictable natural forces into characters in an ongoing saga between fire and ice.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Off-Peak Visit
Visit this attraction during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
this attraction looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.
